During the FIA Congress in Rwanda, President Paul Kagame announced that his country is gearing up to submit a bid to host a F1 race, making the return of the premier motorsport category to the African continent an increasingly plausible prospect.
Rwanda is actively preparing a bid to host a future F1 race, which could bring significant economic and social benefits to the country. For F1, the inclusion of an African Grand Prix would elevate the championship by ensuring its presence on all five continents. Moreover, it would be warmly welcomed by the drivers, especially Lewis Hamilton, who has long been a passionate advocate for the sport’s return to Africa.
“I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is bidding to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa by hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix,” Mr Kagame said in an opening address to the governing FIA’s General Assembly on Friday.
“I assure you that we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment which it deserves. Together we will build something we can all be proud of,” he added.
He emphasized that this reflects the motorsport industry’s ambition to engage directly with fans and nurture aspiring drivers in Africa, adding, “It’s all about respect and providing everyone with the opportunity to contribute in their own way.”
Could F1 return to Africa in the form of a Rwanda Grand Prix? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/FdLoEdOjCc
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However, the outcome is far from certain, as F1 still needs to approve Rwanda’s bid, and the country must build a circuit that meets FIA Grade 1 standards. Meanwhile, Kyalami in South Africa is also aiming to host an F1 Grand Prix, with a promoter already secured and restoration plans in place to complete the circuit and facilities by 2027. This means that both South Africa and Rwanda will be competing for the coveted spot on the F1 calendar.
In August, F1 chief Stefano Domenicali confirmed that Rwanda aims to host a race at a permanent circuit. According to media reports, the track, set to be designed by a company led by former F1 driver Alexander Wurz from Austria, would be located near the new international airport currently under construction in Bugesera, approximately 40km from Kigali.
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
